Knowing when to see the Northern Lights is as important as choosing the right destination. Even in the ideal location, the aurora is only visible at certain times of the year, at specific times and with the right conditions of darkness and weather. Knowing when the aurora borealis is helps you plan your trip better and increase your chances of seeing it.
What you'll find here:
When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?
In which months is it possible to see the Northern Lights?
Aurora borealis by month: what to expect
When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?
Is winter the best time to see the Northern Lights?
When and where to see the Northern Lights
Frequently asked questions about when to see the Northern Lights
The best time to see the Northern Lights is generally from September to March, when the nights are long and dark in the northern hemisphere. Autumn and winter are the most favorable seasons because there are fewer hours of sunlight per day. Summer, on the other hand, in more northerly latitudes, does not allow observation due to the almost constant brightness.
The most suitable months to see the Northern Lights are October, November, December, January, February and March, combining long nights with a higher probability of dark skies. September and April are transition months: it's still possible to see auroras, especially further north, but with slightly lower chances. Between May and August, in midnight sun areas, the permanent light makes it impossible to see the phenomenon, even if there is solar activity.
September: start of the season, good conditions at very high latitudes.
October and November: longer nights, still relatively mild weather.
December and January: peak of winter, very long and dark nights.
February: excellent balance between cold and observation conditions.
March: still very favorable, with growing days but good darkness at night.
The best date results from the combination of high solar activity, clear skies and low moonlight (a very bright full moon can reduce the contrast). That's why it's advisable to stay between 4 and 7 nights at your destination, so that you have plenty of opportunities. The best period is always the sum of the right time with enough time and some patience.
The deep winter offers the longest nights, but also brings more intense cold and a greater likelihood of cloudy skies. For this reason, many travelers prefer months like October, February or March, which maintain good dark conditions but slightly more stable weather.
The simple answer is: between September and March, in regions close to the Arctic Circle. Countries such as Norway, Finland, Sweden, Iceland, Canada and Alaska are among the most reliable destinations for observing the phenomenon.
What is the best month to see the aurora borealis?
February and March are often cited as ideal months, due to the balance between darkness and weather conditions.
Is it possible to see theNorthern Lightsin April?
Yes, especially at the beginning of the month and at more northerly latitudes, although with less probability.
Can you see the aurora borealis in summer?
No. The constant light in the Arctic regions prevents you from observing the phenomenon.
How many days should I stay to increase my chances?
Ideally between 4 and 7 nights, so that I have a margin in case of clouds or low solar activity.
Planning a trip to see the Northern Lights is much more than choosing the right destination, it's also about choosing the ideal time, preparing for the intense cold and making sure everything goes smoothly. When you select the Snow travel reason, your Just in Case automatically includes the basic cover you need for this type of adventure. And if you want to be even more prepared for the Arctic winter, you can add the optional Snow cover.
Explore all the options on our webapp and take out a Just in Case before you travel at the best time of year to see the northern lights. That way, all you have to worry about is waiting for a clear sky, the perfect night and the magical moment when the aurora appears safely and with complete peace of mind.